Carmita begins by reflecting on her experience as a caretaker for her father and brother, both cancer survivors. She shares how witnessing their battles gave her an understanding of cancer—but becoming a patient herself changed everything.
Carmita’s Story: From Caretaker to Stage 4 Cancer Warrior
Family’s History of Resilience
Her father, diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, has defied the odds and continues to thrive after seven years on maintenance chemotherapy. Her brother, who survived a tumor behind his nose, has been cancer-free for nearly nine years. These experiences inspired Carmita to stay vigilant about her own health.
The First Symptoms and Seeking Answers
Last summer, Carmita began noticing changes in her appetite, feeling full after small meals and losing 15 pounds in a short period. Though her initial GI specialist dismissed her concerns, she trusted her intuition and sought a second opinion.
The Diagnosis of Carmita’s Stage 4 Cancer
The second specialist ordered an urgent endoscopy and biopsy, which revealed stomach cancer that had spread to her lymph nodes, making it stage 4. This news marked the beginning of an intense treatment journey involving 10 rounds of FLOT chemotherapy.
Responding to Treatment and Moving Forward
Carmita’s Stage 4 Cancer treatment had a positive effect, making her eligible for further interventions. The Mayo Clinic team proposed a complex approach, including high-peritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and surgery. She found hope in seeing improvements, as initial nodules disappeared.
Current Status and Outlook
While the surgery plan paused to address lymph node involvement, Carmita remains hopeful and proactive. She shares how her journey emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and seeking the best possible care.
Conclusion: Carmita’s journey from caretaker to patient is a powerful reminder of the strength required to navigate a cancer diagnosis. Her story encourages others to listen to their bodies, advocate for themselves, and hold onto hope.